Within the sphere of sustainable development, DECARB-CO project emerges as a paradigm of innovation and transformative potential. At its core lies an unwavering commitment to resource efficiency and meticulous waste management, guided by the overarching goal of addressing the ongoing climate challenges facing rural communities in Rwanda. We aim at contributing to achieve climate neutral agriculture and coffee production, through the adoption of sustainable agroecological practices. DECARB-CO approach has a three-fold impact— enhancing sustainability throughout the chain, bolstering local economies, and improving social well-being—all tailored to the unique needs of the regions we serve.
Composting residues of coffee plantations, coffee washing stations, and farming emerges as an ideal solution within this framework. To address these specific residues and accelerate decarbonization, the project intends to implement and adapt in a biochar-enhanced composting system. Simultaneously, the project includes a capacity building component focused on providing training to local beneficiaries for their management and the utilization of resulting compost. Collaboration with local extensionists from government and private institutions will be a key element in the development of a business plan aimed at ensuring profitability in the production and the utilization of various compost-derived products by small-scale farmer cooperatives.
In this context, Rusizi's coffee cooperatives and their exceptional governance structure emerges as a pivotal aspect for DECARB-CO strategy, offering not only logistical efficiency but also substantial impact potential. Furthermore, a study conducted by Dario Valarezo in 2022 shed light on the opportunities for addressing waste mismanagement within the coffee washing stations located in Rusizi, Rwanda. Central to our innovative approach is the collection of poultry manure to enhance the value of such residues derived from highly influential value chains in the district, aiming at establishing technical guidelines for composting that can be easily adopted and replicated by every coffee washing station (CWS) at local, regional, and national levels. Thus, recovering fertilizing elements, capturing carbon, and establishing a circular economic cycle that reintroduces these resources into coffee plantations. This, in turn, fosters improved soil fertility and healthy coffee plant growth while also reducing the high energy consumption associated with mineral nitrogen fertilizer production.
Origin for Sustainability Association, Switzerland
Partner as technical expert
